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I want to Stop Breastfeeding
My son is 1.5 years (18 months) old. We are trying to gradually stop breastfeeding, mainly the night feeds.
He currently wakes up around 3–5 times every night and usually expects breastfeeding to go back to sleep.
We have tried reducing the night feeds. During one waking, we tried not giving breast milk and instead:
* Carrying and walking him
* Offering water
* Comforting and talking to him for around 5 minutes
However, he cried continuously and could not be settled. We eventually had to call his mother and breastfeed him.
We also tried reducing the duration of breastfeeding, but he cried a lot when we stopped earlier than usual and did not accept it. He only settled after getting his usual/full feed.
He does not usually take or ask for a feed in the morning.
We are finding it very difficult to reduce the night feeds because of his intense crying.
Could you please advise us **what we should do at this stage and how we should proceed from here?**
Answers (4)
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As he is already 18 months and you are planning to wean if ensure adequate daytime breastfeeds/formula milk + solid foods and play time.scheduled dinner time and bath time before sleep.If has a habit of drinking milk before sleep it should before or Atleast half an hour before going to bed.
2. Gradually reduce the duration/amount of one night feed every few nights like shorten the feed by 2–5 minutes every 2–3 nights, then resettle.
4. For bottle-fed babies, gradually reduce the volume rather than stopping abruptly.
5. Have the other parent/caregiver try settling the baby with cuddling, patting or rocking.
6. Keep the room dark and interaction minimal at night.
7. Expect some protest initially; consistency is important.
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At 18 months, you can gradually reduce the night feeds. No need to stop suddenly.
Start with just one night feed. Try to shorten that feed little by little and comfort him by cuddling or patting. Once he gets used to it, slowly work on the next feed.
He may cry initially because he is used to breastfeeding to fall back asleep. Be consistent and give him some time to adjust.
If he is eating well during the day and growing normally, there is no need to replace every night feed with another feed.
Next Steps
have patience, gradual Weaning is suggested
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Dr. Ankita Gahlot
Obstetrician
12 yrs exp
Bangalore
Night weaning at 18 months is very achievable, but stopping the feed suddenly rarely works when a child is this attached to it. Gradual, consistent change over one to two weeks usually goes better than removing it outright.
Next Steps
Shorten the feed a little each night instead of stopping it cold, and follow it with the same comfort steps (carrying, patting, water) so he links those to settling too. If someone else can take over the settling for a few nights, he stops expecting the feed specifically from you.
Health Tips
Expect a few rough nights before it gets easier, so try not to switch approaches too often. If it still feels unmanageable after a couple of weeks of consistent effort, your pediatrician can help with a more structured plan.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.